Health Library

Silver Sulfadiazine Topical cream

What is this medicine?

SILVER SULFADIAZINE (SIL ver sul fa DYE a zeen) is a sulfonamide antibiotic. It is used on the skin for second or third degree burns. It helps to prevent or treat serious infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

anemia or other blood disorders

glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

kidney disease

liver disease

porphyria

an unusual or allergic reaction to silver sulfadiazine, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Clean the affected area and remove burned or dead skin. Wear a sterile glove to apply the cream. Apply the cream to cover the whole area evenly. Treated areas can be left uncovered, but a gauze dressing may be used. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

collagenase, papain, or sutilains

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin condition does not begin to get better within 3 to 5 days.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

fever, sore throat, chills

increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

lower back pain

pain or difficulty passing urine

rash that appears or worsens following treatment, continued redness, swelling, burning, itching, stinging, or pain at the area of use

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin

unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

brownish gray discoloration of skin, nails or clothing

itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.